How Progressive Myopia Increases Long-Term Vision Risks

Myopia is becoming more common every year - especially in children. While glasses and contact lenses can correct blurry distance vision, they do not slow down the progression of myopia. When myopia continues to worsen year after year, the long-term impact can extend beyond needing stronger prescriptions. At Sight To See Eyecare & Eyewear, our eye doctors in Geneva, IL provide advanced myopia management in Geneva to help protect your child’s eyes today and support healthy vision for their future.

What Is Progressive Myopia?

Myopia typically develops when the eye grows longer than normal, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Progressive myopia occurs when the eye continues to elongate rapidly throughout childhood and adolescence. Each increase in prescription often means the eye is stretching more - putting added strain on the structures that support vision.

The Risks Behind High Myopia

Children with increasing myopia are at a higher risk of experiencing:

•           Retinal Detachment: The longer and more stretched the eye becomes, the more fragile the retina gets. This can lead to tears or detachment that can cause permanent vision loss if not treated quickly.

•           Glaucoma: High myopia is associated with an increased risk of glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve. Because glaucoma often has no early symptoms, regular eye exams are vital.

•           Cataracts: People with high myopia tend to develop cataracts earlier in life, affecting their ability to see clearly and potentially requiring surgery sooner.

•           Myopic Macular Degeneration: When the retina stretches, the macula can begin to deteriorate. This condition is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults.

Even a small increase in prescription can raise the likelihood of these complications later in life. That’s why early detection and control of myopia progression are so important.

What Causes Progressive Myopia?

Several factors can influence why a child’s myopia worsens, including:

•           Family history of nearsightedness

•           Significant screen time or close-up work

•           Limited time spent outdoors

•           Rapid eye growth during school-age years

Understanding these risk factors allows parents and eye doctors to take proactive steps.

How Myopia Management Can Help Protect Vision

Unlike standard glasses or contacts, myopia management focuses on slowing eye growth to reduce future risks. Sight To See Eyecare & Eyewear offers advanced treatment options tailored to your child’s needs, which may include:

•           Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) specialty lenses

•           Multifocal soft contact lenses

•           Essilor Stellest Lenses

•           Atropine eye drops

•           Lifestyle guidance to support long-term eye health

The goal is to help children maintain clearer vision now while reducing the chances of serious problems later in life.

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today

Progressive myopia isn’t just about needing stronger glasses - it’s a condition that can affect lifelong eye health. With early intervention through myopia management in Geneva, your child can enjoy better vision today and a healthier future tomorrow.

If your child’s prescription keeps increasing or you’re concerned about their eyesight, schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Sight To See Eyecare & Eyewear to learn whether myopia management is right for your child. Visit our office in Geneva, Illinois, or call (331) 241-7447 to book an appointment today.